A complete Short Inca Trail Packing List is unique because, unlike the 4-day trek, this 2-day experience does not involve camping. You will stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, meaning there is no need for sleeping bags, camping mats, or large duffel bags. You only need a lightweight daypack (20L to 30L) for your daily hiking essentials.
Gear Allocation and Packing Rules
Because there are no pack horses or porters carrying personal bags on this short version, you must carry everything you need for the 2 days in your own daypack. Keep it light, under 5 to 6 kilograms, to ensure a comfortable hike up to the Sun Gate.
| Daypack Essentials (Carried by You) | Clothing to Wear & Pack |
|---|---|
| Original physical passport (required at checkpoints) | Sturdy, worn-in hiking boots or trail shoes |
| Water reservoir or bottles (at least 2 Liters) | Moisture-wicking hiking shirts (avoid cotton) |
| Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent | Lightweight trekking pants (zip-off are ideal) |
| Rain poncho or waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex) | Warm fleece or light down jacket for the evening |
| Headlamp or small flashlight for the early morning | Sun hat and UV-blocking sunglasses |
| Swimwear (optional, for Aguas Calientes hot springs) | Trekking socks (synthetic or merino wool) |
The Packing Strategy
Since your main luggage will remain stored safely at your hotel in Cusco, your daypack should only contain what is strictly necessary. Pack a change of clothes for Day 2, basic toiletries (toothbrush, travel-sized toothpaste, deodorant), and a phone charger or power bank. A waterproof pack cover is highly recommended to protect your gear from sudden Andean rain showers.
Essential Safety Gear
Trekking poles are optional but recommended to help with stability on the stone steps. If you bring poles, they must have rubber tips; metal-tipped poles are strictly prohibited to prevent erosion on the ancient Inca paths. Always carry small cash denominations in Peruvian Soles (PEN) for purchasing snacks, water, or tips in Aguas Calientes.
“Since you stay in a hotel, leave the heavy sleeping bags and camping mattresses in Cusco. Keep your daypack as light as possible—under 5 kg is best. This will make your climb to Wiñayhuayna and the Sun Gate much more enjoyable.”
— Ronaldo, Cusco Trekking Guide & High-Altitude Specialist
To check availability and book your hike, visit our main page Short Inca Trail 2 Days, where you can secure your Machu Picchu tickets and train schedule in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is my main luggage stored during the trek?
Your main luggage stays in Cusco. Our agency, as well as almost all hotels in Cusco, offers free, secure luggage storage. You will retrieve your main bags when you return to Cusco on the evening of Day 2.
Do I need to carry a sleeping bag?
No, sleeping bags are not required. Since the 2-day trek includes a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town) on Night 1, you do not camp at any point on the route.
Are trekking poles allowed on the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, trekking poles are allowed and recommended. However, they must be equipped with rubber tips at all times. Metal spikes are banned by the government to protect the historic stone staircases.
